Gorgias

by Plato

Overview

In the world of ancient philosophy, few texts are as intriguing and influential as Plato's "Gorgias." This Socratic dialogue delves deep into the nature of rhetoric, ethics, and the philosophy of power and influence. Set against the backdrop of a vibrant Athens, it presents a riveting debate between the titular character Gorgias, a renowned sophist, and Socrates, Plato's mentor. The discourse navigates the moral implications of persuasion and the true meaning of justice, contrasting sophistry with the Socratic method of seeking truth.

Plato's incisive exploration in "Gorgias" addresses the timeless question of whether it is better to suffer wrong or to do wrong, laying the groundwork for centuries of ethical philosophy. The book masterfully weaves political philosophy and personal ethics, presenting a critical view of rhetoric as an instrument of power. It culminates in a powerful argument for the prioritization of soul over body, and truth over flattery.

Gorgias is not just a cornerstone of Western philosophy; it is a testament to the enduring quest for moral truth and the complexities of human nature. This dialogue remains a compelling read for anyone seeking to understand the roots of philosophical thought and the timeless conflict between might and right.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781396324840
Publisher:	Left of Brain Books
Publication date:	01/30/2024
Pages:	148
Product dimensions:	5.25(w) x 8.00(h) x 0.40(d)

About the Author

James H. Nichols, Jr., is Professor of Government at Claremont McKenna College. His published work includes a translation of Alexandre Kojeve's Introduction to the Reading of Hegel, also from Cornell.

Table of Contents

	Acknowledgements	vii
	Reference System Used in this Edition	ix
	Chronology	xi
	Introduction	xiii
	Further Reading	xxxviii
	A Note on the Text	xliii
A	Dialogue With Gorgias	3
B	Dialogue With Polus	27
C	Dialogue With Callicles	64
	Notes	139
	Glossary of Greek Terms	151
	Index	153

Editorial Reviews

"The admired qualities of Dodds's works, a scholarship both exact and deep, an economy and lucidity in exposition (Dodds has few rivals in saying much in the fewest words with absolute clarity), and an immense level-headedness and sobriety which combined with the sharpest acumen and independence of judgment in the handling of evidence is never seduced by the charm of fantasy, all these once more characterize his edition of the Gorgias."—Philosophical Quarterly

"Professor Dodds's fine edition (which both overhauls the manuscript tradition and supplies a commentary as wide ranging as it is perspicacious) fills a gap untouched in this country since 1890....The Gorgias should have a special appeal to contemporary students, and to historians no less than philosophers."—Times Literary Supplement

From the Publisher